Fifa Ballon d'Or shortlist nominations: in pictures

Four-time Ballon
d’Or winner Lionel Messi was overlooked for last year's award,
with long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo chosen instead. His club side
slipped, too, as a direct result of the little Argentinean wizard’s dip in
form; Barcelona failed to win any silverware for the first time since 2008.
At the World Cup Messi captained his side and showed glimpses of
match-winning brilliance, but looked to be burned out. Despite his lack of
sharpness he was able to steer his side to the final in Brazil, but Messi
was heartbroken at the last and left to rue his missed opportunity.